Maine Cosmetologist Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary function of a hair lightener is to remove color from hair. This process typically involves the use of bleaching agents that break down the natural pigments in the hair, resulting in a lighter color. When applying a hair lightener, the product penetrates the hair shaft and oxidizes the melanin, which is the pigment responsible for the hair's natural color.

This ability to alter and lighten hair color is crucial in various hair coloring techniques, such as highlights or complete hair color transformations. Understanding how lighteners work is vital for stylists to achieve the desired results while minimizing potential damage to the hair. The process is particularly effective on natural hair color but can also be applied over existing hair color to achieve a lighter, brighter shade.

The other options do not align with the primary role of a hair lightener. Adding moisture pertains to conditioning treatments, straightening relates to chemical relaxers or smoothing products, and creating texture involves styling products and methods that enhance the physical structure of the hair.